Legislative (Non-Checkoff) Internship

Applications are now open for the Iowa Pork Legislative Intern position for Summer 2027.
Due Date: Oct. 16, 2026

Submit Application Now

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This internship was created to encourage students to become involved in the pork industry and gain the knowledge and experience to become young leaders in policy advocacy. The role works in conjunction with the efforts of the National Pork Producers Council and the Voluntary Strategic Investment Program.

Who We Are

The Iowa Pork Producers Association is a grassroots organization serving as a unified voice for Iowa's pork producers, made up of about 70 county associations and more than 4,000 affiliated and associate members statewide.

Internship Details

  • Location: Iowa Pork Office – Clive, IA & U.S. Senator's office – Washington, D.C.
  • Time Commitment: Minimum of 12 weeks (5 weeks in D.C.), approximately May–August 2027 (includes the Iowa State Fair, August 12–22)
  • Financial Assistance: $7,000 stipend to cover summer expenses + $3,500 scholarship paid directly to your college or institution
  • Additional Info: No benefits or housing provided. Use of an IPPA vehicle is included; personal vehicle mileage and work-related expenses will be reimbursed.

What You'll Do

Projects and tasks will be assigned and overseen by the Senator's staff and IPPA staff, and may include:

  • Assisting with drafting briefs or visuals for the Senator
  • Attending meetings with the Senator's constituents
  • Assisting with the IPPA Grassroots program
  • Planning and facilitating the celebrity chef and volunteer schedule of the Iowa Pork Tent throughout the 11 days of the Iowa State Fair
  • Assisting IPPA staff with ongoing and new projects
  • Communicating current industry issues, association programs, and educational opportunities to producers and the next generation
  • Other duties as assigned

What You'll Gain

  • Firsthand experience working for a U.S. Senator in Washington, D.C.
  • Insight into how elected representatives serve farmers and other constituents
  • Exposure to the key industry leaders shaping the future of agriculture
  • Experience sharing producer information and priorities directly with elected officials
  • A professional network of swine industry contacts to support your career search after graduation

Who Should Apply

This internship is open to any student, with preference to applicants who are:

  • Iowa residents
  • Full-time college students
  • In good scholastic standing
  • Passionate about agriculture, ideally the pork industry

Skills We're Looking For

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects
  • An outgoing personality and comfort meeting new people
  • Flexibility to work some nights and weekends
  • Basic knowledge of the pork/livestock industry, or willingness to learn

How to Apply

Submit your application online below and include:

  • Cover letter
  • Resume
  • 500-word essay: What are two to three things you would tell a legislator about how pigs are raised for pork production, and the importance of Iowa’s agriculture industry to the state’s economy?

Questions?

Contact Hope Brecht at 515-225-7675 or email info@iowapork.org

 

Submit Application